Jimmy Carter: Former US President, Nobel Peace Prize winner dies at 100

Former President Jimmy Carter celebrates his 80th birthday at Jimmy Carter Library & Museum in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo: R. Diamond. Source: Getty Images

A tireless advocate for peace and human rights, Carter passed away on Sunday, December 29, at his home in Plains, Georgia.

Former US President Jimmy Carter, a champion of peace and human rights, passed away at age 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family

Carter, the longest-lived US president, was preceded in death by his wife Rosalynn in 2023 and is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren

Elected in 1976, Carter served as the 39th president from 1977 to 1981, focusing on human rights, diplomacy, and environmental conservation.

Carter’s post-presidency legacy as a humanitarian earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for promoting peace, democracy, and development through the Carter Center

Georgia – James Earl Carter Jr, the 39th president of the United States of America (US), is dead.

The former president died peacefully at the age of 100, surrounded by his family. He made history as the longest-lived US president.

Carter is survived by his children, Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy, as well as 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

The former head of state was preceded in death by Rosalynn Carter in 2023, his partner of 77 years, and one grandchild.

Chip Carter, the former president’s son, reflected on his father’s extraordinary life, describing him as his hero.

“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love. My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs,” Chip said as reported by the Carter Centre.

Preparations are underway for public observances in Atlanta and Washington DC, where Americans will be able to pay their respects.

What are Carter’s career highlights

Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Carter’s journey from a peanut farmer to the Oval Office was a perfect depiction of the American dream.

Elected in 1976, he served as president from 1977 to 1981, prioritising human rights, diplomacy, and environmental conservation.

Though his presidency faced challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis and economic struggles, Carter’s post-presidential work cemented his legacy as a humanitarian.

In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in advancing peace, resolving international conflicts, and promoting democracy and development through the Carter Center, which he co-founded with his wife, Rosalynn.

Carter starts hospice care at home

As reported, the 39th US president had been receiving hospice care at his home following short hospital stays.

Carter’s foundation disclosed that the former president decided to spend time at home with his family instead of getting further medical attention in the hospital.

Details of the retired leader’s recent hospitalisation were not provided to the public by The Carter Centre.